ALESE AXSON

1938-1942 Diary of Alese Axson of St. Matthews, South Carolina

St. Matthews, South Carolina, 1938. Hardcover. This is the 1938 to 1942 diary of Alese Axson, an 18-year-old woman living in South Carolina during the final years of the Great Depression and the beginning of World War II. Leila Alese Axson was born in 1919 and spent her whole life in or around St. Matthews, South Carolina, where she had an extensive family network. Throughout the diary, Axson makes many references to Jacob Samuel Stabler, Jr. – “J. S, ” – who she would eventually marry. Axson’s entries suggest that at the time of writing she is working as a secretary or clerk in a local office that deals with mortgages and grants, among other things. In her diary, Axson discusses the lives of her family members and the events that occurred in her immediate community. “Aunt Rose came. She and I went to Orangeburg to take my watch to be fixed. J. S. Worked at Rogers” (February 26, 1938). “Mr. Berley came. Told me of highly complementary remarks by Montgomery auditors” (June 8, 1939). “Mamma and I went to shower for Sadie. Had a nice time! ” (November 9, 1940). “J. S. Came to ask me about his choice of elective Service” (February 3, 1941). “J. S. Came at 9: 00 – stayed until 10: 00. I gave him some boxes. We both cried” (March 26, 1942). This diary offers an excellent look into the small-town world of the American South at the end of the Depression and the beginning of World War II. The Axson and Stabler families were well established in this region of South Carolina, and Axson’s diary is a wonderful primary source for genealogists and historians. The cover is in fair condition with a small tear and wear marks along the edges and corners. The front cover has separated from the spine but remains attached. The binding is loose, as are some of the pages within. The handwriting is legible. Details: Size: 5.25" x 4", Number of pages: 365, Completeness: 100%, Condition: Fair, Handwriting: legible; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010051

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Women' Studies Southern State Coming Age Courtship

ELIZABETH CALAWAY

1936-1940 Pennsylvania Diary Highlighting the Immense Burden and Resilience of Middle Aged Womanhood and the Power of Community

Girard, Pennsylvania Penn PA, 1936-1940. Hardcover. On offer is the Five Year "A Line A Day" diary of Mrs. Elizabeth Strobel Calaway (1889-1983) from Girard, Pennsylvania. Calaway was a teacher and she wrote religiously and extensively from 1936-1940, when she was aged 47 through 51. Elizabeth was married to George Arthur Calaway [sometimes Caloway], who worked as a contractor. They had one child, Alice Calaway (1916-2010). Elizabeth’s diary demonstrates the unbelievable (and sometimes unbearable) burden on a middle class working woman in 1930s America. Each morning she was up and off to work at her job as a teacher, walking in all weather. When not at work she was supporting her adult daughter, Alice, who still lived at home, and her husband, whose health was always tenuous. She was also volunteering for the Church, sewing and crocheting, attending events at the IOOF (International Order of Odd Fellows) , playing games with friends (the game ‘500’ was a particular favorite). She was tending to the garden, canning veggies and attending lectures, theater productions and concerts. She also never missed a school party with her beloved pupils. Somehow, in her ‘spare time’, she managed to cultivate a massive social circle, almost too many friends to name, though she name drops constantly - a treat for any genealogy buff. Her best friends seemed to have been the Graftons and the Stancliffes. Elizabeth writes simply but tells us everything that happens in her days, for example: “First ride we had in our new Coupe. A very large crowd to hear “Landon”. He was a splendid speaker…George came to Chautaugua. Alice and I came home” [Aug 24, 1936]. Life became increasingly complicated for Elizabeth in December of 1936, when her journaling becomes a hybrid of her daily activities and a log of George’s health status. At first her notes were simply little additions to descriptions of her rich days: “George sick” and “called Dr. For George”. In January, 1937, her entries became more focused on George. One day George seemed better, the next day he could not even move. On January 5, 1937, she moved their marital bed downstairs to accommodate George. Soon, the Calaway’s community began pitching in, helping to care for George. Elizabeth’s diary for the rest of 1937 oscillates between commenting on her robust work life and social life, and commenting on George’s condition.. Exactly one year before George’s eventual death, Elizabeth’s diary entry reads: “Much cooler. George felt sick all day. I sewed. Fixed a quilt for Miss Monahan. Picked my tomatoes” [Aug 23, 1937]. Her Memoranda for 1937: “George sick all year long. Sometimes better than worse. It has been a hard year”. George eventually died on Aug 23, 1938 at age 51. Clippings of his newspaper death announcement and obituary are tucked into Elizabeth’s diary. The day of George’s death, Elizabeth wrote: “Very cool morning and night. George still breathing. We staid [sic] alone last night. At 8: 20 he passed away. Alice hadn’t finished her breakfast. We went to Erie. Bev Davison took us. Picked out casket. A very hard day”. With her usual energy, Elizabeth carried on. She did not have time to wallow in grief, though she did note visiting the cemetery on occasion. By 1940, her daughter Alice seems to be working in nearby Erie and Elizabeth visited regularly, bringing her home on weekends. Elizabeth and Alice also take a short vacation to New York City to attend the World’s Fair. Some excerpts to give the flavor of the diary in 1939 and 1940: “Very warm day. Singed and washed turkey. Worked quite hard until nearly two o’clock. Went to a lecture in evening very good” [July 21, 1939]. “Warmer. Quite a bit of snow but driving good. Let school out early. Went over home. Ate with Ma. We killed a rooster and picked it. Alice was home and had her supper. Miss Monahan staid [sic] here” [Nov 22, 1939]. “Very warm day. Got up early and started for New York City. Alice drove most of the way. Visit Picadilly Hotel. Cleaned up and went to see the Statue of Liberty. Didn’t get to bed until late” [June 12, 1940]. “Rather warm all day. Took Subway to the Fair. Took in many sights and walked until we were very tired. Sit on the Balcony of Pa. Building to see Colors of water and Fireworks. Got home at hotel rather late” [June 13, 1940]. “Very hot sun. The girls went to Church. We got up a little early. Done up work. Got chicken dinner. Made ice cream. Went for a ride. Looked at new houses. ” [June 16, 1940]. This diary would be an absolutely crucial addition to the collection of a women’s studies scholar as Elizabeth Calaway so completely explores every aspect of the middle age woman’s experience in the years leading up to World War II, though she does not discuss the war. This diary also contains a plethora of first and last names of friends and colleagues living in Pennsylvania at the time, a gem of a diary for a genealogist. The diary is leather bound and measures 4” x 5.5”. It is 100% complete (though she does not use the Memoranda or Special Notes sections, with one exception). The cover, spine and pages are all intact with only a small amount of age toning to the pages. The diary clasp is also attached. Overall VG. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012030

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

Keywords: Female Authors Widows 20th American

HAROLD EDMUND (EDWIN) DRAKE

1918-1919 Diary of an Intelligent, Witty Us Army Medic Exploring France While Stationed in Rumaucourt As the War Drew to Its Close

Rumaucourt, France, 1918-1919. Softcover. On offer is an excellent, intensely detailed World War I diary kept by a bright, well-written young man named Harold Edmund (sometimes Edwin) Drake (1897-1987) , who would become a well-respected dentist in his home state of Ohio following his time in the service. Military records show that Drake was trained for service at Camp Crane. He was in the Camp Crane Unit #17 August Automatic Replacement Unit (Medical). Camp Crane was a World War I United States Army Ambulance Service (USAAS) training camp, located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Its mission was to train ambulance drivers to evacuate casualties on the Western Front in France. In September 1918, Drake was deployed to France, sailing on the USS Maui. When Drake commences this diary (which he clearly states is his second since entering the service; his first entry begins “Continued from Book 1”) he is stationed in Rumaucourt, France. Rumaucourt is in the Pas de Calais region. This region was in the heart of the WWI conflict and one of the principal theatres of the war. Many major battles took place between 1914 and 1918, including Vimy Ridge, Arras, Artois, and Cambrai. Drake recounts his day-to-day existence at Rumaucourt, sometimes with a very wry sense of humour. “My diary as a US Soldier (I wasn’t really a soldier, just being attached to the army for rations, etc but it sounds swell) ” [Inside front cover]. He does not identify his unit but context confirms that he is a Sergeant, later promoted to Sergeant-Major. Context also suggests that he is serving in one of the many Convalescent Hospitals near the front. What makes Drake’s diary special is the level of detail in which he writes, both about his experiences as a soldier overseas and of his experience as a bright and engaged young man taking advantage of this accidental travel opportunity. His entries are long and he writes with wit and, sometimes, poetically. His entries take a turn after the Treaty of Versailles is signed in June, 1919, and he discovers he will not be immediately returned to America. His disdain for the army in which he is committed to serve is palpable. Some excerpts follow, to give a sense of how Drake wrote about his work and his play: “12: 20 AM and I am sitting at an oil-cloth covered table in the Red Cross hut at Is-Sur-Tille. Our instructions are to be at Rumaucourt station in time to catch the American Rocade for Chaumont. Well we arrived at about 12: 45 and started to wait. When it was about time for the train to arrive, the RLO announced that it would be a very crowded train so he would put us on the 3: 29 ‘Frog’ train. So we started in to wait once more. Time is the most abundant thing a French railroad possesses. 3: 29 came and passed…” [Feb 18, 1919]“Walked around the grounds in bright sunshine and climbed out on the cliffs, where we had a fine view of the cape and the town on the other side of the harbor. The sea of deep blue with the villas of white [together? ] with the red tile roofs made a most beautiful picture. On the shore to the left was the mountains with their tops enveloped in clouds. After dinner we caught the first car into town to take the trip there. The “Old City” and “Chateau Hill” which started from the “Y” at 2: 15pm. Saw a hotel in which Napoleon and a Pope or two had stopped, the Hotel de Hills or City Hall, and the ancient palace of the Duchess of Savoy, an ancient church which was begun about the 15th century. Very beautiful inside…” [Feb 20, 1919 - this is a brief excerpt of his four page account of a vividly detailed description of a guided evening tour of town that he took. On May 30, he travels to Versailles for another guided tour and writes another three vividly detailed pages about the history, sights and sounds of the place amidst war]. “…BH [Base Hospital] 52 and 58 left this afternoon on the first lap of their trip home. They were delayed a bit at the depot as their train of “ Hommes 40 Chevaux 8 “ was believed a wreck. This wreck was caused in a wood very near St. B... The pilot of an airplane fell from his machine at quite a height and fell near the track His machine flew for about a mile and then crashed onto the train smashing in and derailing a car of men Two men were injured and the observer is not expected to live. The pilot was found dead along the track. Probably first time in history that a plane has wrecked a train” [Mar 8, 1919]. “Work about as usual. Peace signed at 3 P. M. [he refers to the Treaty of Versailles]. Parade tonight - Lebanon can put on a better parade than that” [June 28, 1919]. “...No liberty for anyone. A grand and glorious fourth! From the news at present it looks as tho we would be here for a while. Am disgusted with the army and all pertaining to it” [July 5, 1919]. For a historian, this is a superb, first-hand account of a soldier’s daily life at the close of WWI. In plain but well-written English he describes events and circumstances that never make it into the history textbooks but are the all-too-real experiences of life in the army during wartime. This is a fine addition to any collection of first-hand accounts of WWI and is an excellent example of primary-source documentationBIO NOTES ON HAROLD E. DRAKE: Harold Edmund (sometimes called Edwin) Drake (1897-1987) was born to parents Frank and Ida in Lebanon, Ohio. He enlisted to the US Army on July 20, 1918 and was honourably discharged on October 2, 1919. Upon returning to Ohio from his service, Drake became a dentist. Dr. Harold Drake married Dolla Pauline Spencer in 1947. Sadly, Spencer’s father passed away shortly before the wedding, so it was an understated affair. The couple had no children. Harold was accepted as a member of the Sons of the American Revolution as the direct ancestor of Private Joseph Drake (b. 1744) of New Jersey. Joseph Drake was his great-great-great paternal grandfather. This diary measures 5.5 inches by 3.5 inches. It is a standard-issue pocket notebook, a precursor to today’s Field Message Pad (FMP). Each page is printed with a faint grid pattern overlay. The notebook has 100 pages and is about 90% complete. The cover is in good condition save for some chipping and loss of leather at the spine. The binding is intact and the pages present age toning that does not interfere with readability.. The handwriting is legible. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 100 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011160

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

EARLE SUMNER DRAPER

1914 Diary by Earle Sumner Draper, Who Coined the Term Urban Sprawl

Amherst, Massachusetts, 1914. Hardcover. Offering a 1914 handwritten personal diary by Earle Sumner Draper, who would go on to have a major impact on urban planning in the United States. At the time of writing, Draper was a 21-year-old Massachusetts Agricultural College (later called UMass Amherst) student. The book offers an excellent glimpse of what life as a landscape architecture student in the 1940s looked like. Draper’s days are filled with studying, socializing, and extracurriculars. “Up at 8: 30 went into Boston -- around looking for a summer job in [...] offices. Fair luck. Dinner at N. S. Hotel. Took Susie out to the Harvard game. An awful game -- we lost 18-3. Took the 6: 10 out to Harry’s and studied in evening. Bed at 10: 30 PM” (February 11). “Up at 5: 45 and studied Hort. Waited. Worked all morning with Harrison on topo work. Cut Math. Learned more about topo than I ever knew before. Cut drill (was excused). Tennis practice in doubles. Supper. Worked on Frat ball game. Studied L [...] 10 all evening” (May 20). “Started work on design for Mrs. Haight’s Rose Garden. No letter from N yet. Somewhat worried. Read Kenyon [...] on “Design” in library in evening” (September 17). “Working on design for Ellwood. Played tag football. Attended Senate Hash House Investigation meeting with Kenny. Wrote up Ent roster. Trouble getting Feb 12 date for hockey filled” (November 17). Draper was born in Massachusetts in 1893. In 1915 he earned his B. S. In landscape architecture from Massachusetts Agricultural College (now the University of Massachusetts). After graduating, he went to Charlotte, North Carolina, to work on the Myers Park subdivision, and eventually established his own firm specializing in upper-class residential neighborhoods and mill towns. He later moved to Washington, DC, and became the director of land planning and housing for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) , and then director of regional planning studies. In 1940 he became assistant administrator of the Federal Housing Administration and was later appointed as its acting commissioner. Earle Draper is the man who coined the phrase “urban sprawl, ” which is used to describe uncontrolled suburban growth with little to no regard for planning. His collected papers can be found at the University of North Carolina and Cornell University. Draper’s diary provides an excellent window into the education and formation of one of America’s most important planners. Details: Size 4.75" x 3"Number of pages: 122100% completeOverall condition: goodBinding: cracked along inside front cover Handwriting: legible; Manuscripts; 4.75" x 3"; 122 pages. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010044

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: . Planned Communities City Planner Alumni

STELLA MAE DURBIN (LATER BROWN)

1936-1940 Collection of Diaries of a Young Ottawa, Kansas Republican Woman on the Verge of Independence

Topeka, Ottawa, Kansas. Softcover. On offer is a terrific archive of four diaries spanning over four years in the life of a busy, politically engaged and descriptive young Kansas woman named Stella May Durbin (later Brown) (1909-1977) [SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING]. Stella was a proud Republican and member of the the Ladies of the Grand Army of the Republic and Order of the Eastern Star. She suffered from colitis and describes the experience of inpatient surgery and recovery in 1936 quite well. She references abdominal pain throughout her diaries. Stella works in both Ottawa and Tokepa, Kansas. At one point she works at the Topeka State Hospital. Stella’s entries are generally long and very newsy. Reading her diary is very much like hearing an update from a friend. Her 1936-1938 diaries are very comprehensive. In 1939 she tapers her writing, begins using it as more of a ledger book for her finances, and includes a few random 1940 entries (and dates them as such) , which is a fun treat. Some excerpts give a sense of how Stella writes and the general content of her diaries: “...Lois and Merv took us to see the wrecked car downtown. Two cars collided head on, then Carl, Murch and Eileen drove into the wreck. They weren’t hurt but one fellow was killed. Had quite a surprise this afternoon when Clair Spears called and came up to talk. He must have thot I was a wreck for I’d shampooed and set my hair…” [Jan 5, 1936]. “Hottest ever recorded as late in the season. Leota called to ask me to attend the G. O. P. Party council with her in Topeka tomorrow and I don’t feel like it…Saw Ritz Malone and talked about the elephant cookies for the next G. O. P. Banquet. Have pills to take, got Belladona for colitis…” [Aug 24, 1936]. In September of 1936, Stella has a surgery, in which one and a half of her “tubes” are removed and she reports her “appendix had an attack”. This surgery was presumably related to her colitis though she does not specify. She writes for several days after the surgery, painting a picture of what it was like to be inpatient post-op in the 1930s. A sample excerpt from her post operative recovery is here: “...Get a bath every morning, alcohol rub on back and powder bath then back rub again..keeping register of doctors, nurses and aids…” [Sept 17, 1936]. “Saw Franklin D. Roosevelt today…Ruth, Mother and I went to Junction to see Roosevelt. He just sat in the car and waved - rather disheartenedly, we all thot. Crowd went wild…” [Oct 13, 1936]. “Washed and dressed, straightened house & dishes about 9: 30 when 5 of K. C. Folks drove up. Busy all morning getting dinner but I let them do the dishes. Rested and we all read excerpts from grandma’s diaries…” [May 30, 1936]. “Home after work...Not paid tonight & was surprised. Paid the balance on my shoes and they seem alright but I don’t know... Put 9 pennies in bank tonite – I’ll get something nice with them someday…” [Mar 25, 1937]. “...Went to the Circle meeting...Mrs Morgan pres, Mrs. Bidermans Sr Vice & yours truly Jr Vice. Also elected 1st delegate to State encampment at Topeka in May with all expenses paid Can be so nice with granddad going too…” [Dec 10, 1937]. “Went to see Alexander’s Ragtime Band and surely enjoyed it. Don Ameche, Alice Faye & Tyrone Power. Went to Cheney’s for groceries but didn’t see anyone I knew. Had an experience – a woman tried to run Mrs. Bowlby & Nadine. Then the woman thumbed her nose – audibly – was I mad! “ [Sept 14, 1938]. “Election at Eastern Star and I was gloriously defeated! Mrs. Chalmers got it. Feel relieved but I got the best votes of all 4. She got it easily on the 2nd ballot” [Dec 7, 1938]. “...Mr. Pleasant called today and I’m to work in driver’s license bureau at $12.60 a week, am to go to Olathe Sat re to schooling. Cleaned ice box and floor all around it…. Made ice cream too - butterscotch. Anna, Mother and I to Star and the dummy candidate - my feet are screeching! ...” [June 7, 1939]. “Got letter from Frank this morn so I answered it and told him the decisions were up to him or we might try a month’s separation - just writing if we cared to” [June 20, 1939]. “...Granddad died 3: 15am July 13…Started work in Topeka State Hospital - July 30, 1939…Frank started work Jan 3, 1940 and on his own in car on Wed 24th January” [Memoranda Section, 1939 diary]. For a social historian, this group of diaries offers and excellent look at the life of a young American woman in the years immediately preceding WWII. They also portray the social structures of the time and the roles that women played within society – roles that would radically change in a few short years. BIO NOTES: Stella was the third of four children born to parents William Henley Durbin and Mary Estella Getty in Ottawa, Franklin County, Kansas. Stella married Talmadge Abraham Brown in Ottawa, Kansas on October 6, 1940. Brown served 19 years in the US Navy and Stella moved with her husband for his career, landing in South Carolina, where Talmadge would sadly die in 1956. This archive contains four diaries covering the years of 1936-1939. All four diaries measure 6x3.75 inches. The diaries for 1936-1937 are 90% complete, while the 1938 and 1939 diaries are about 60% complete. The covers, bindings and pages are all in Good condition. There are several neat pieces of ephemera tipped into the diaries, including . ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010058

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Chronic Illness

ALBERT EDWARD ELLIS

1929-1934 Archive of a Depression-Era Beat Cop’S Log Books and Ephemera Documenting His Patrols of Downtown Boston

Boston, Massachusetts. Softcover. On offer is an archive of nine logbooks and associated ephemera kept by a Boston police officer patrolling in the downtown core during the Great Depression. The police officer who kept these log books is Albert Edward Ellis (1897-1986) , a patrol officer with the Boston Police Department. Prior to entering the force, Ellis served in the US Army during World War I. He married Irene A. Kelley and they lived in Roslindale, MA with their two children, Jeanne and Albert. Ellis became a Mason in 1925. He kept these logs while working in downtown Boston for the Boston Police Department in his 30s. His badge number was T229.For each day he works, Ellis notes, at minimum, the intersection at which he is posted, the officer(s) who relieve him on his breaks, and many 6 digit automobile reference numbers of cars he observed. On many days, Ellis’ notes are more in-depth. Ellis makes exceptionally detailed field notes when there are incidents he will need to officially write up and report back at the station. Some incidents he details include handling a pocketbook theft, describing automobile accidents he witnesses, responding to civilian complaints such as open manholes, breaking up fights, and more. Some excerpts from his notes follow: “About 11.40 this PM I found the rear cellar door of 754 South street open…Walter’s Candy store…secured same at 1150 PM with Patrolman Locke. Reported to the station 11.55” [Sept 9, 1925]. “About 9 this AM while directing traffic at the corner of Boylston and Exeter street I gave the traffic in Exeter street a hand signal to start... I then heard the horn and noticed a Police car #103 coming…. I then gave a signal for the traffic I had just started to stop and gave the police car a hand signal to proceed…The operator of the taxi which I had started said he did not see the hand signal that I gave him to stop…. [the police car] was struck and turned over by a Peerless 20 Century Taxi…” [December 19, 1933]. “... Wanted for murder on Div #16 2 men/#1 – 22 6 150 med comp Blue suit Brown hat/#2 – 22-23 6 150 Brown suit and hat which did not fit at Hotel on Huntington Ave” [Sept 14, 1929]. “I found Bernard D. Mann 40 years old married of 15 Tirrell street Atlantic Mass Laying on the sidewalk in Dartmouth street in front of the library near Huntington Ave. He was taken to Boston City Hospital in the ambulance…[he] was found to be suffering from post Epileptis [sic]…his wife was notified” [Jan 28, 1931]. “Opening day for Liquor End of 18th Amendment” [Dec 5, 1933, Ellis refers here to the end of Prohibition]. Ellis also notes his days off work, vacation days, and breaks during his work day. Ellis’ writing is consistently professional in nature, his personal opinions and feelings never overtaking his professional judgment. Tipped into several of the logbooks are some additional police-related ephemera including: detailed, completed arrest cards, an envelope with photographic negatives, a form that was supposed to have been sent to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to record a driving infraction, an official report on an incident (addressed to Captain Perley S. Skillings of Division 16). The final piece of ephemera provides the one and only hint as to who Ellis was as a person outside of his job - a postcard sent from a friend named “Strip”. In the postcard, Strip refers to Ellis as “Bozo” and makes some jokes that are decidedly politically incorrect. This archive is an absolutely fascinating glimpse into the work life of a beat cop working in the heart of downtown Boston in the first half of the 20th century. The names of Boston locals and fellow officers paired with the locations mentioned by Ellis provide rich information for those interested in the Boston region. Since Ellis notes his patrol intersection each day, these books may fill in some historical knowledge gaps about Eight of the diaries measure approximately 6.75” x 4” and contain 60 pages plus an additional two typewritten pages providing instructions to police officers about how to “Ascertain and Note” facts about traffic accidents and the “The Importance of Preserving Fingerprints”. The ninth book measures 6” x 3.75” and contains 140 pages (it is not an official police log book as the first eight are). The diaries are between 90-100% complete. The diaries were kept in 1925, 1929, 1930, 1931 and 1934. Each diary covers a few months of the year. 1929 and 1930 are the most heavily covered with three diaries completed for each of the two years. The covers, bindings and pages of all nine diaries are in good condition. The officer wrote in pencil and pen. All writing is legible. Overall VG. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010313

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

Keywords: Notebooks Urban

OFFICERS OF THE INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS

1902-1904 Minute Book of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Auburn Encampment #112

Auburn, New York, NY, 1902. Hardcover. On offer is a century-old Minute Book from a large and successful international fraternal organization. The Minute Book belonged to the Auburn Encampment #112 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. It was located in Auburn, NY. The Minute Book covers the time period from Dec 26, 1902 until Dec 25th, 1904. This Minute Book details the routine steps these men took to put into practice the values, principals and teachings of the IOOF as they met on a monthly basis in their community. It also records the practical things that had to be done to keep the Encampment operating in a sound and organized manner. The entries are signed by the men who held the position of Scribe – C. E. Parcell, Harry L. Pope and G Elerofoot. Some excerpts follow: "... C. P. Stated that owing to his being unable to treat the boys with a smoke at the time he took the Chair, he had decided to treat tonight to a good smoke. Our most worthy Chief kept his word for he at once dispatched a messenger who returned with a box of xcelent cigars which was highly appreciated by all the [ ].... "[p 6]. "...C. P. Buckman reported the drawing of $15.00 from the Treasurer, the death benefit for our deceased Ptr J. Adamson..." [p. 32]. "...A letter was received from Satina Encampment No 114 of Syracuse inviting the Auburn Encampment to visit them on Nov 20th and confer the Golden Rule degree..." [p. 65]. The Minute Book provides extensive lists and references to its many members. The IOOF broadly drew members from across the social spectrum. Notable members included Wyatt Earp, Charles Lindburgh and at least 5 Presidents of the United States. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is an international fraternal organization that dates back to 18th century England. Consisting of affiliated ‘Lodges’, it can be traced back to 1748 in London. One accepted explanation for their unique name is that the original Odd Fellows were men who were engaged in various or odd trades that lay outside those of the old, well-established trade guilds such as weavers, bakers, masons, etc. These workers of “odd jobs” banded together and initially met in the back rooms of pubs, paying a penny per week in dues that would help members who fell ill or had passed away. Eventually, the idea spread and a network emerged of more formalized Lodges and the Odd Fellows developed their own unique rituals, philosophy, and purpose. In 1810, the Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity in England was established. Odd Fellows spread overseas, including formally chartering the fraternity in the United States in 1819. The Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity became the largest and richest fraternal organization in the United KingdomAmerican Odd Fellowship is regarded as being founded in Baltimore in 1819, by Thomas Wildey. In 1843 the Oddfellows in America declared their independence from the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows and became a self-governing Order – the Independent Order of Odd Fellows – which established lodges across the world. Today, beyond recreational activities, Odd Fellows promote philanthropy, the ethic of reciprocity and charity. The American-seated Independent Order of Odd Fellows enrols some 600,000 members divided in approximately 10,000 lodges in 30 countries. “Encampments” are one level above the standard Lodges of the organization. For a social historian, this Minute Books offers an insight into the inner workings of this fraternal organization and how it worked to respond to the needs of its members at the beginning of the 20th Century. For a genealogist, it’s lists of members are an excellent reference resource. This Minute book measures 9.75 inches by 8.0 inches and contains 152 pages and is about 98% complete. The cover and binding are in good condition as are the pages. The handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012222

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

GLADYS MARGARET FINNEY

1923-24 Diary of an Observant San Francisco Teen Insightfully Discussing Her Personal Life, the Arts, Local and World Events

San Francisco, California, Notre Dame High School. Softcover. On offer is an interesting journal kept by a motivated and organized young woman attending the all-girls Notre Dame High School in San Francisco, California in the early 20th century. The diary is written by a high school student mainly during her freshman and sophomore years. Research and context indicates that her name is Gladys Margaret Finney. Only her surname is visible on the inside cover (which has been heavily ripped) , but her full name is noted in a list she hand wrote naming all members of the “Class of 1926”, of which she was a member. From context in the journal and research cross-referencing the names of Finney’s classmates, it appears Gladys is our author and that she was attending Notre Dame High School in San Francisco at the time of her writing. Gladys Margaret Finney Luhman (1910-1997) was born in California to parents Constance (1882-1929) and Francis Joseph (1876-1956) Finney. She was an only child. In 1942, she married Bertrand C. Luhman (1909-1944) He died only two years later of esophageal cancer. Gladys does not appear to have remarried or had any children. She and Bertrand are buried together. Finney’s entries are detailed though inconsistent. Her diary begins in April of 1923, when she is a high school freshman. She writes until August of 1923, then picks up again and writes sporadically between January and July of 2024. She also makes a number of undated entries. The diary is chock full of discussions deemed important by high school students of the day, some neat content about the military, as well as a lot of discussion of life in California. Gladys also enjoys attending film and theatre productions and often gives thoughtful summaries and reviews of shows she’s seen. Some excerpts: “Mrs. G. Wore her blue crepe de chine waist , blue skirt, black shoes & stockings & black sweater. I got 88 in History. And 100% in Science” [Apr 21, 1923]. “Today Section A – Biology was introduced to Ferdinand Shumann by Sr. Cecile Marie.... He has black hair a la Valentina, brown eyes, he wore a black suit with grey stripe bow tie, brown oxfords and spats. He carried a cane, brown hat and white gloves...OH THRILLS” [Jan 24, 1924]. “Last Friday we went down to Santa Clara to see “Everyman”. The play was very good. It was an old morality play from the Middle Ages. The author is unknown. I went in Evelyn (Lagomansind? ) ’s machine. It’s a seven passenger Haynes sedan. Mrs. Lagomansind, Claire McCarthy and Evelyn sat in the front…Our machine was the only one with a grown up driver. Ann Nuttman drove her own car, so did Dorothy Barnett…” [April 9, 1924]. “...I went to the Golden Gate with Kathleen. About the best picture I’ve seen is Sporting Youth. It was very exciting with an automobile race. Reginald Denny takes the part of the chauffeur…On Monday June 23, 1924 the first cross-country in-a-day trip was made thro the air by Lieutenant R. L Maughan of the U. S. Army Air Service. He started from Mitchell Field, N. Y, at 3: 59 AM Eastern Time and arrived to Crissy Field, S. F. At 9: 47PM Pacific Time. The actual flying time was a little over 17 hours, so he really beat the sun. 40,000 San Franciscans were waiting to greet him. He was given bouquets and receptions etc. He spoke over IEPO one night and among the listeners in was his wife in Utah…” [July 3, 1924]. Of interest is her description of seeing Royal Navy sailors in the port of San Francisco. She mentions by name the famed British battleship HMS HOOD. In fact, this was a port of call on HOOD’s round-the-world Empire Cruise of the Special Service Squadron: “So yesterday, we went across to Ruth’s. We saw the ships. They looked wonderful. The H. M. S. Hood is 940 feet long. It looked immense. The “California” was right next to it and looked like a baby. Going over, we saw a boatload of sailors on the Narrow Gauge. Oakland and Berkley entertained the soldiers yesterday. Last night, we went to Oakland and saw them again. You could hardly make them out, though. On the 12th and Broadway train there were three sailors - two American and one English. The two were joking and laughing and having a good time. But the other fellow only half smiled and looked lonesome - perhaps for the loss he left behind him…” [part of a multi-day entry begun on July 11, 1924]. Also of interest is a listing of all of her graduating classmates and a poem she wrote incorporating all of the names of her classmates, both at the end of the diary. For a social historian, this journal is an excellent window into the world of a young American girl growing up in post WWI America. The horrors of WWI are behind her and the ravages of the Great Depression yet to come. For a genealogist, the class/student list is an excellent reference for research. This small journal measures 6.75x4.0 inches and contains 72 pages. It is 100% complete. The front cover is damaged. The bottom right corner, accounting for about 25% of the cover is torn off. The back cover shows wear and worn marks on the outer and bottom edges. The binding is generally firm. The pages are in good condition. The handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 72 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011102

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Angst 20th Academy

PAULINE E. GELSER

1936-1940 Incredible Diary Chronicling a Rural New York Farm Girl’S Life from Age 11 to 16, Meeting Her Husband and Becoming a Woman

Duncan, Short Tract, Hornellsville, Canaseraga, New York, Rural New York, 1936-1940. Cloth. On offer is the outstanding five-year manuscript diary of bright, chatty and boy-crazy Pauline E. Gelser (b. July 26, 1924) kept from age 11 through 16, as she completes her schooling, dates, supports her family’s work on the farm, socializes and meets her future husband [See BIO NOTES on Pauline at the end of the listing]. Pauline begins her diary at age 11, in January of 1936 and keeps it religiously until December of 1940, when she is 16. Pauline records her graduation gifts and discusses her graduation in the spring of 1940 (and records show she graduated high school in the class of 1940) however she does return to school in the fall of 1940 and we are unable to verify where this schooling was taking place. This coming-of-age diary shows Pauline growing from a young girl who doodles on her diary pages in 1936, to a young woman who is preparing to enter the adult world. It is a rare treat to find a young diarist so dedicated to her writing, allowing us to watch a Depression-era high school experience unfold in detail. The first year of Pauline’s diary includes funny anecdotes from school, jokes and doodles and, in some cases, just the names of boys she likes written in a huge hand. 1937 begins as the year of Gail Coombs. Pauline has a big crush on him, though he doesn't seem to share her feelings. She spends 1937 talking about the boys, school, her work on the family farm and her family. She is now a freshman. As Pauline grows and changes, she finds new boys on whom to focus and gains confidence in herself as a woman. Her entries become more insightful and more self-aware. However, she never loses her childlike quality. In 1940 Pauline realizes she is in a less-than-great relationship with a boy named Bill and finds her true love in Tommy, her future husband. Some excerpts from the diary to give a flavour of Pauline’s writing and growth follow: “The boys said the teacher was coming. They brookin [sic] the door when we opened it. They stayed after school, also apologized” [Feb 6, 1936]. “Had party, young folks. Danced with Johnnie, Francis, Vernon and Billy. Billy was good. (Oh I can never forget it) ” [May 9, 1936]. “I got 100 in civics, 100 in General Science and 48 in Home making. I am…not smart. Don’t know what happened” [Sept 16, 1936]. “I got a note to-day warning me to let Gail Coombs alone from my advisor whoever that is. It is my own business” [Dec 3, 1936]. “Gail was pretty good. Didn’t talk nor write any notes. I got a note today…but Gail never wrote. I hope he likes me. I sat by Johnnie, Francis, Claire, Billie…Gail went by and did not like it” [Jan 8, 1937]“Our new teacher was there today. She isn’t very good looking and some say she isn’t very bright” [Feb 9, 1937]. “I went to the Freshman party at the “Old Mills”. Walked down Gerald. He roasted a weiner for me and got my lemonade for me. My slip came down. I had a good time. Swim was there. I went wading and fell in. Gail said I didn’t have any pants on. Imagine! ” [June 2, 1937]. “Gail’s father hung himself today. Geo Gates came down and got Gail this noon. It’s too bad. He was 45 years old” [Oct 4, 1937]. "Mr. & Mrs. H. R. Jones were over to dinner. Guy has 2 boils, pretty bad. Grandma gave me a dress, apron and $.50. Pretty good Grandmother" [July 17, 1938]. “Have seen Bill every day this week. Boy! He sure is swell” [May 10, 1939]. “Went to Japland. About 20 min to 3 deadline. Margie and Laverne, Eleanor and Clair, and Bill and I. I fought with Bill. Eleanor sat out with Leighton…. ” [July 12, 1940]. “Election! Mother’s 43rd birthday. Old pie face Roosevelt won - Bah! Humbug! ! Tommy came over, went to Birdsall and around by Gawoods home. Sat to home on his lap” [Nov 5, 1940]. In nearly 2,000 daily entries, Pauline charts the course of her life as she grows up. This is an absolute gem of a find for anyone interested in the lived experience of a teenage girl during the Great Depression and the experience of living on a family farm while cultivating a thriving social, academic and church life off the farm. BIO NOTES: Pauline Gelser was the second of four children born to Paul and Frances Josephine (Hamilton) Gelser in Hornellsville, New York. She lived her entire life in that part of New York state. According to records, she graduated from Canaseraga Central School in 1940 (though in her diary she discusses attending school in the fall of 1940 and no post-secondary records have been located). In 1943 she married a farmer, Thomas J. Bennett (1918-2002). They lived on a farm in the Dalton, New York area, near Short Tract, and had a son, Thomas R. Bennett, Jr. This diary measures approximately 6.75 inches by 5.25 inches. It contains 365 pages and is 99% complete. The fabric covers are in fair condition with staining and lots of markings written by the diarist (and maybe her friends? ) Markings include the handwritten names of the author’s crushes and friends. There is a clasp closure but the strap is broken. The spine and binding are intact and the pages are in good condition. The handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012048

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

Keywords: Angst Teen Romance

HELEN LEONARD GILMAN

1901-1903 Manuscript Diary of a Wisconsin High School Sorority Girl Who Would Go on to Marry Into a Prominent New England Family and Make an Impact at Dickinson College

Madison, Wisconsin: Madison Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin, Dickinson College, 1901. Hardcover. On offer is a revealing diary written by one Helen Leonard Gilman (1884-1952) of Madison, Wisconsin, during her sophomore and senior years of high school at Madison High. Gilman would go on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin as a teacher and marry Dr. Herbert Wing, a member of a prominent New England family which founded Sandwich, Massachusetts, and a renowned professor of Greek literature for many decades at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania. [NOTE: We also hold a diary written by Dr. Herbert Wing in our collection - search for item # 2097 or contact us for the listing]. See end of listing for complete BIO NOTES on Gilman and Wing. This diary covers the second half of Gilman’s sophomore year of high school, with long, chatty entries spanning January to August, 1901. There is then a large gap, and Helen returns on June 12, 1903 for a detailed update about her high school graduation, and once more on June 29, 1903, when she meets up with her Delta Epsilon sisters for a final picnic before they all move on. In her diary, Helen gives us much more than a daily look at her life. She is highly intelligent and provides great detail that situates the reader clearly in the teen world of Wisconsin at the turn of the 20th century. She is heavily involved with her high school sorority, Delta Epsilon, and discusses their activities at length, including the initiation process for a new member named Daisy. She shares great detail about her education, extracurricular activities, church life and community involvement. She is an engaging writer and her entries are robust. She writes in a notebook instead of a diary, allowing her to be as verbose as she desires in her writing. Some excerpts from her diary give a sense of the themes and style of her writing: “Another week of school begins! The same old studies History, Caesar, Algebra and Greek are gone over. This noon took my notices to the Journal office with my notices. After school tonight, the committee appointed to oversee Daisy’s initiation met here. We have planned the most terrible things! Its a wonder if the poor child is not killed. This evening the Nautilus Club have a sleigh ride but I am unable to go on account of my cold and hard hard studies…” [Jan 14, 1901]. “I took to school with me this morning the babies Mother Goose Rhymes which we [Delta Epsilon] girls gave to Daisy who is to learn portions of it [Daisy is being initiated into the sorority]. Nautilus club met this evening after school and we had quite an exciting time as one of the girls got so excited while talking about how much she loves Burns that she wept. After club Margaret F and I went up town. The small pox scare at the Psi U house has proved to be nothing put a case of La grip” [Jan 15, 1901]. “This has been a very busy and delightful day – Flora and I went uptown at noon and tried to find a poster girl that I could use tonight but failed so after school I had to draw one. Such a sight as all the girls were this evening. Fran and Daisy came as ballet girls and looked too dear for any use. Awful low necks and short skirts. Dignified Clare shocked us all by appearing in a skirt far above her knees! ...” [Feb 21, 1901]. “... Today however is a great day for this morning I received the reward of four hard years of labor – my diploma from Madison High School ... With a grade of 5th in a class of 95! ... Last night I received my graduation presents...grandma gave me a beautiful diamond solitaire and the aunts a beautiful pearl ring...Mama gave me one of her beautiful gold bracelets with the initials of all who have worn it inside…” [June 12, 1903]. For a social historian or researcher into Women’s Studies, this is a window into the role education played in socializing young women into gender roles. As the writer Karen Graves noted in Girl’s Schooling During the Progressive Era, the high school education system became a more "efficient site for the construction of gender" (Graves, 2016). Traditionally, education served to teach middle and upper class girls enough to make them suitable marriage partners for men who would actually be the ones running affairs. Its goal was to make them good wives and mothers, not educated equals in society. This diary gives a fine view into this system and would be a valuable addition to any writings exploring this subject. Her sorority membership adds an extra layer as sororities and fraternities have long been seen as elitist and exclusionary organizations that serve to segregate young people based on ethnicity, class and wealth. BIO NOTES: Gilman was born to Edward Gilman and Sophie Mosley in 1884 in Madison, Wisconsin. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin in 1907 and taught at schools around the state. She also worked for the Wisconsin Historical Library. In 1916, she married Herbert Wing who came from a well-established New England family. Helen and Herbert lived in Pennsylvania where Herbert worked at Dickinson College. They had one child, H. Gilman Wing, who graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Dickinson in 1948. During the senior Wing’s tenure at Dickinson, Helen helped to organize the Mary Dickinson Club. While in Pennsylvania, Helen founded the Carlisle branch of the American Association of University Women, was a patroness of Pi Beta Phi sorority and was heavily involved in the Methodist church. Herbert Wing was an ancestor of Reverend John Wing, who founded the town of Sandwich, Massachusetts, the oldest community on Cape Cod. Through marriage, she is a member of the Wing Family of America Inc. This nonprofit corporation was formed in 1902 to preserve the family heritage of The Reverend John and Deborah Wing It also owns Wing Fort House, the oldest home in North America continuously owned by one family. Helen sadly passed away at the age of 68 from breast cancer. This hardcover, lined notebook measures 9.5 inches by 7.5 inches. It contains 96 pages and is about 50% complete. The cover is in good condition. The spine is in good condition, but the binding is loose at the inside front cover, although it is still intact. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is quite legible. Tipped in to the diary are dried flowers from Helen’s high school grad, two handwritten original Delta Epsilon songs, and a handwritten list of names that appear to be connected to sorority life. Overall Good+. ; Manuscripts; Large 8vo 9" - 10" tall; 96 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011166

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: 20th Female Authors Angst

DR. CHARLES THOMAS GNEWUCH

1953-1990 Travel Diary of a Wisconsin Chemistry Professor’S Two Incredible Outdoor Adventures at Ages 15 and 52

Milwaukee, Wisconsin WI. Hardcover. On offer is an interesting journal with entries separated by nearly forty years. It includes a reference toanother of the unique historical (and true) legends of the west. The journal belonged to Dr. Charles Thomas Gnewuch (1938-2020). He was born to parents Charles and Dorothy (Ahern) Gnewuch and graduated from St. Mary Springs Academy in Fond du Lac, WI. He earned a PhD in Chemistry at Georgetown University, and became a university professor, ending his career at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. His focus as a university educator and researcher was in the area of medicinal chemistry with an emphasis on anti-cancer agents. Outside of his professional work, he was a gifted musician, being heavily involved with the Green Lake Festival of Music. Gnewuch enjoyed a late-in-life marriage in 1999 to Julie Ann Lickteig. Julie cared for him as he lost partial use of his legs due to transverse myelitis. This journal is unique in that it contains details of an outdoors trip with his father, Charles, when he was 15 years old and a second trip in 1990 when he was 52. The diary also contains two photocopies of photographs taken at the “Vagabond Ranch” in Colorado – a wilderness ranch still in operation today. The first trip was taken in 1953 along with his father. Together, they travelled to join a larger group of campers with whom they set off on a cross-country adventure to a ranch in Colorado. He keeps detailed notes of each day and the flavour of the trip shines through: “Got up at 7-15 and made bed. Ate breakfast. Packed extra socks . And sleeping bag in trailer and back of Chrysler. Started to Cheyenne at 10-30 or 10-40... Finally camped near an amusement park not far from the rodeo grounds ... Ate dinner on park bench. Before this we tried to go swimming in a lake nearby, but the lake was closed to swimming (Reason Water was so polluted and stagnant from lack of rain...) ” [July 21, 1953]. He makes reference to both the Shepp and Bemis ranches in Idaho and the legendary history of Polly Benis. “Got up around 6: 00 ... Had the trout for breakfast... Pack up and were on our way at 9-45 A. M. We saw some more deserted cabins... The homesteads were a product of the Depression... The Bemis and Shep Ranch. Bemis was shot during a poker game and a Chinese slave girl nursed him back to health. Benis took her to the ranch near the river. They were married and they [lived] together until they died…” [Aug 10, 1953]. “... We started on the last leg of our journey at 9-00 A. M. We went through some good-sized rapids. At one rapids, Dad and & I got out of the boat and got pictures…” [Aug 11, 1953]. Barely a page after the description of this trip as a youth, Gnewuch begins a journal of a trip he took in 1990 from Fond du Lac WI to the southern states. At that time, he was 52 years old and in the middle of a very successful career as a university professor and researcher. Unlike the first trip description, this one does not bring him full-circle to his home but rather ends abruptly in Jackson MS. It is also a much shorter account. He begins on April 5th, 1990, leaving Fond du Lac WI and driving to Cairo, I. It’s a succinct entry with a descriptive comment about Cairo: “... Cairo is a poor town at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Down along the levi of the Ohio River” [Apr 5, 1990]. In Memphis, his love of music comes through in his comments: “...In evening went to Beale Street to listen to blues and jazz. Enjoyed listening to a jazz band at [blank]. All black musicians and a black female vocalist. Walked to the Peabody Hotel to listen to an old Negro pianist at the lounge. He played a boogie woogie number for me and he was very good with the blues…” [Apr 6, 1990]. The record of this trip extends another few days before ending abruptly when he is in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This is a fine example of a look at an early formative experience in a successful man’s life as he kept his childhood journal well into his adult life only to use it again to record another similar experience. The book is a travel journal and measures 6.5 inches by 4.0 inches. It contains 88 pages plus reference pages and is 50% complete. The cover is padded and it and the spine are in good condition. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 88 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012205

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Camping Outdoorsman

EVER READY GUILD

1950-1964 Manuscript Minute Book for the Ever Ready Guild Women’S Christian Social and Charity Club of Weymouth, Massachusetts

Weymouth, Massachusetts. Hardcover. On offer are the detailed minutes of 14 years’ worth of club meetings from a group of women collaborating to improve their church and community in 20th century New England. This minute book belonged to the Ever Ready Guild in Weymouth Massachusetts, which was founded in 1928. Newspaper reports of the time indicate that the Ever Ready Guild was a women’s club within the East Weymouth Congressional Church. Research shows that clubs of this or related names such as Ever Ready Club were a regular feature of many Christian congregations of the time. The minute book is fascinating for the amount of detail it provides about this group. According to their records, they had about three dozen members and would usually have 20-30 members out at their monthly meetings. These women were quite active in their church and community. At their meetings, they recognized members for life events such as births or deaths, they planned and carried out events such as dinners and discussed ways of supporting their wider community. One delightful feature of most meeting was the ‘Mystery Package’ wherein one member was responsible for selecting and giving ‘mystery gifts’ to two other members. Some of their fund raising activities were creative and certainly evidence of good humour, such as this: “...We were asked to measure our waists and pay a penny for each inch at the September meeting…” [p. 68]. “...It was reported that $8.93 was earned by the waist measurement project…” [p. 77]. “... A motion was made and accepted that the Guild pledge to the church should be $150.00…” [p. 47]. “...It was voted to make a donation of $5.00 to the Red Cross…” [p. 55]. “...Helen T made a motion that we bring to the next meeting gifts for children…” [p. 176]. Other donations were made to Red Feather (this community aid group was the fore-runner to the United Way) , Children’s Medical Center, their local Baptist church, programs to support the needy, a Childrems’ Table at the local fair, the March of Dimes, the Seaman’s Society and others. “... It was voted that the Guild take charge of the Children’s table at the fair. The Guild was also asked if they would take charge of a Silent or Sacrificial Luncheon to be held on Good Friday…” [p. 103]. “At the May 23rd, 1961 meeting, they recorded that it was the 33rd anniversary of the Guild” [p.226]. The monthly notes are filled with local references and specific members of their community. There are repeated references to events such as rummage sales and food sales, luncheons, annual outings, silent auctions, Halloween and Christmas parties, etc. They were held at local locations such as the "Country Fair", "Odd Fellows Hall", etc. These women were completely invested in their church and civic community. They planned, hosted and participated in many events throughout the year such as "Covered Dish Supper", "Snow Ball Festival", "Music Festival", etc. They also were a close-knit group and were careful to be aware of and respond to their fellow members such as visiting ill members of the group, sending cards or flowers for events such as births or deaths, attending funerals. They were conscious of events beyond their community and dark war clouds on the horizon did not pass unnoticed: “...The meeting closed at 9: 00 followed by a very interesting talk on air raids given by Mrs. Betty Prudent…” [p. 21]. It is tempting to look at middle class women from the 1950’s and 60’s through the stereotyped images of June Cleaver from Leave It To Beaver but these women were actively engaged in their communities and dealt with real-life issues. This Minute Book offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of these women and their church and the wider community of Weymouth, MA. For a social historian, it is rich in detailed information about the world these women inhabited and their roles in an evolving social structure. For a Women’s Studies or Gender Studies program, it offers an outstanding look at the role these women played in their community during a period of momentous social change in the United States. For a genealogist, this is a superb source of information about a fairly cohesive group in this New England community. There are extensive lists of members’ names along with their addresses. The book is a minute book and is in very good condition. Measuring 9.75x 7.75 inches, it contains 300 numbered pages and is 100% complete. There is evidence that 15 pages have been cut out of the book near the beginning. The hard cover is in good condition as are the binding and pages. The handwriting is quite legible. The minute book covers the years 1950 through 1964.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 300 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011169

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: ' Societies ' Unitarian

REVEREND HOWARD DAWSON HETRICH (SOMETIMES HETRICK)

1921 Diary of a Philadelphia Reverend, Salesman and Wwi Veteran Recording His Work and Religious Endeavors

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PA, 1921. Hardcover. On offer is the small yet interesting diary of Reverend Howard Dawson Hetrich (sometimes Hetrick) (1889-1953) [SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING]. At the time he kept this diary, Hetrich was 32-years-old, single, living in Philadelphia, working in sales and as a Pastor. He discusses his personal life only briefly. This diary is chock-full of short, factual entries about his work life and religious occupation. At the back of the book, he kept a detailed record of his earnings over the course of the year and even notes details like his income tax. His annual sales for 1921 to $8,203. Some brief excerpts follow to give the flavour of the diary: “No del. - on 27th St. $28.00 for orders. Only canvassed few hours. Letter to Mrs. []. Very cold and clear” [Jan 19]. “To Newton’s for dinner. To Sunday S [school? ]. Preached in church in PM. Many out to service. To Mench’s in eve after supper. Prayed in homes. Heart touched” [Feb 6]. “To Camden to Baptize in Del. River. Six souls. Fixed up route. Good services. [Pleasant], clear and warm” [Mar 20]. “Sabbath. Practiced hymns around town (until? ) sun set…Sister Katie gone…in eve. Letter to Emco. Rain” [Nov 26]. For a social historian, this small diary gives a detailed look at how one young man earned a steady income and infused his life with his religious service in the heady days following WWI in America. BIO NOTES: Born in Schaefferstown, Pennsylvania to Agnes Ream and Cyrus R Hetrich, Howard Dawson Hetrich was baptised at St. Paul’s United Church. He grew up and lived in Lebanon and Philadelphia, PA. Hetrich served in the US Army as Pvt 1st Class in Company B 326 Field Signal Battalion. In 1926, Howard married Ardenia C. Ennis (1907-1976) and together they had three daughters: Mary (1928-2010) , Ruth and Ardenia. Howard worked in sales and was also a Reverend who worked as a Pastor within the United Church. This small diary measures 4.75 inches by 3.0 inches. It contains 122 pages and is 100% complete. The cover and binding are loose but intact with some bumps and bruises due to age but overall good condition. The pages are also in good condition and the handwriting is legible, though in a messy cursive scrawl. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 32mo 4" - 5" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012220

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Christianity

ALTON ROSS HODGKINS

1904 Diary of a Bright New England Teen Who Would Become a Foreign Relations Advisor for the Us Government and Economics Professor at Top American Universities

Maine, New England, Usa, 1904. Softcover. On offer is a diary of a seemingly average teenage boy living on a farm who would grow up to become an academic and have an important impact on the United States of America. The author of the diary is Alton Ross Hodgkins (1890-1952) a 14-year-old boy who would go on to become Dr. Hodgkins, a foreign relations correspondent for the US State Department and an Economics professor at many renowned academic institutions [SEE FULL BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING]. Hodgkin’s diary is full of the details of a young teenager who is intent on keeping a detailed record of his daily life. At the time he kept this diary, Alton was living in Damariscotta Mills, Maine. His father was a farmer. It is clear from Alton’s diary that he equally valued contributing to the family farming work and his academics. Some excerpts give the flavour of the diary: “It has snowed all day. It was tough coming home from school tonight. We had to take some exams today. Got A in Latin and B in Algebra. We had Uncle Charlies team today” [Jan 22]. “My Birthday. Got up a little after seven. Pa carried uncle John to the train this morning. I went down to Ermalines after milk this forenoon. Been reading about all of the afternoon. Marm gave me a couple of books. Been reading them” [Mar 19]. “Pa and I have been hoeing, planting, etc. All the day. Sunie went up to Nettie’s this evening and is going to stay all night. I went down to Sizzies after milk tonight” [June 4]. “Pa and I mowed McCurda’s swamp this forenoon and branched it this afternoon. I read some today. Ella cooked, washed the floor, dusted and so forth all day” [Aug 27]. “Christine, Sandford, Roy and I went in Tad’s wagon with his horse today. Norman got hit on the head with an iron ball today. I was down to the store this eve. Pa went over the pond this afternoon” [Sept 20]. “Got up, did the chores, ate breakfast and went to school. We didn’t come down to dinner. Went over street this evening, came back and went to sociable at the Congo. Roy was up to David’s. Have been studying” [Dec 6]. “Got up, ate breakfast and went to school. Took exams in German, Latin and arithmetic today. Got Algebra paper, A. We walked home tonight. Been doing nothing this even. Mamma is over to Lill’s” [Dec 23]. “I will make more money than before, and that I will keep an account of my spendings, earnings, etc. Also, that I will pay more attention to my studies and be more orderly and respectful to my instructors. And that I will try to be more attentive to my work at home” [1904 New Year’s Resolutions tucked into diary’s back pocket]. For a social historian, this diary paints a very clear picture of day-to-day life in rural New England at the turn of the 20th century, as seen through the eyes of a young teenager. It is fascinating to find clues as to this boy’s future success. His surprisingly tidy handwriting, dedication to recording details and ongoing comments about his academics make up some of the pieces of the puzzle. BIO NOTES: Dr. Alton Ross Hodgkins was born in Newcastle, Maine to parents Daniel and Alice (Bartlett) Hodgkins. Alton graduated from Bates College in Maine, received his Master’s degree from Washington University and a PhD from John Hopkins. Dr. Hodgkins worked as a special adviser to the Minister of Guatemala, served three years as a foreign relations correspondent for the US State Department and completed a Carnegie Research project on the living conditions in Haiti. Dr. Hodgkins taught economics at the State Normal School in PA, University of Maryland, National University in Washington, Randolph-Macon Women’s College in Virginia, Tulane University, Newcomb College and ended his career at Centre College in Kentucky. Dr. Hodgkins was married twice. He married June Atkinson in 1914 while living in Washington, DC. They were married for 27 years before divorcing in 1941 and had no children. Later in 1941, Hodgkins married Blanche Couessin in while living in Virginia. He died of cardiac causes unexpectedly at the age of 61. Measuring 6 inches by 3 inches, this diary contains 122 pages plus memoranda. The diary is 100% complete and the memo pages at the end are about 10% complete. The leatherette cover is in fair to poor condition with a large stain on the back cover. The spine is damaged and the rear cover is partially separated. The enclosure strap is quite worn. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is quite legible. Overall Fair. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Fair in Fair dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012225

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Johns Angst

AMASA MAYNARD HOLCOMBE

1906 Manuscript Diary of a Cool Mit Grad, Transportation Enthusiast, and Future Lawyer Working and Living It Up in New England

Hartford Connecticut CT: MIT Graduate, Patent Lawyer, Hartford, Washington, N.D.. Hardcover. On offer is the well-kept 1906 diary of bright 23-year-old Amasa Maynard Holcombe (1882-1971) , who is coming of age as he works, socializes and dates in the interval between his graduation from MIT (class of 1904) and his return to law school. In the years after this diary was written, he would attend George Washington University’s law school (class of 1910) , become a patent lawyer, serve as a Major in the US Army in WWI, marry and remarry repeatedly, and become a pillar of the community as a member of many respected organizations. At this diary’s writing, Holcombe was working as the assistant to the treasurer at Pope Manufacturing Company in Hartford, Connecticut. He was also dating (by the end of the year he’s getting serious about Miss Ella Knapp) , working on his motorcycle, attending auto club meetings, and socializing up a storm. When he does comment on his work, it is clear to see that he is sharp as a pin and focused on his future success. SEE FULL BIO NOTES AT THE END OF THE LISTING. Some excerpts from this excellent diary follow. Amasa M. Holcombe is such a solid diarist that these excerpts only scratch the surface of his year. Typical of a gentleman in his early 20s, Holcombe writes much more about his social encounters than his work life, but the diary as a whole provides many insights into his career and the broad New England landscape. “Cold, Fine. Office routine. Saw Mr. Jenkins about patent application Rec’d letter from Geo. Fayban. Went to Waterbury to costume party in Friendly League Hall. Made up as Bro. Jonathan. Put up at the “Connecticut”. Rec’d celluloid scale from Clarence E. Whitney” [Jan 25]. “Office routine. Sent mother $15.00. Put $20.00 in the bank. Bought tie, socks, etc. Took Miss Woods to the bowling club at Y. M. C. A. 136-103. She invited me to play bridge some evening” [Feb 23]. "Office routine. Ground new exhaust valve into motor. Ordered new summer suit at Gemmel Burnhams. Called at Mr. Jenkins office with two applications. Met Stevens on the street. Went over to Ella Knapps and had a little food. Had lunch downtown. Bought pair of tan low shoes. Rec’s whist invitation from Hattie Legett. Accepted" [May 3]. “Cold. Cloudy. Office till 9: 30. Went to the Hartford Club to a meeting of the Mechanical Branch of the A. L. A. M. Subject - tires. Lunched there. Visited the Hartford Rubber Works, and Henry Souther’s laboratory with the crowd. Had my first ride in a Pope-Hartford Mod. 7. Went over to Ella Knapp’s. Sent Elsie five dollars” [June 8]. “Showers in PM. Went to Svelle’s camp on motorcycle, arriving at 12: 20. Left Htfd 10: 05. Had dinner and played 3rd base in game against the “Albers”. They won 8-7. Hard and fast game. Made two runs. Went swimming with the boys. Went canoeing with Marie. Teresa, Clara and Miss Baker were out, also Dan. Sprinkled a little. Hot night” [July 22]. “Office routine. Took out commission as Notary Public. The Toledo racing care came up for repairs. Looked it over. Pretty well smashed up. Mr. Russell called to talk insurance. Rec’d letter from BG Wilson. Went over to Ella Knapp’s. Took a walk. Wrote postals” [Sept 25]. Holcombe’s diary provides a detailed, precise description of what it was to be motorcycle-riding, popular and successful white man in 1906 America. This diary is an absolute treat for social scientists and New England collectors. His diary is simply replete with names and places which makes it a goldmine for genealogical researchers. BIO NOTES: Amasa Maynard Holcombe (1882- was born in Winchester, Massachusetts to Frank Gibbons and Inez Norman Maynard. He completed a BSc at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (class of 1904). Immediately after graduation he worked in machine design at Farrell Foundry & Machine Co in Waterbury, Connecticut and as assistant to the treasurer at Pope Manufacturing. Holcombe returned to school in 1908, attending George Washington University to earn his law degree (class of 1910). While in school in Washington he worked as an assistant examiner at the US Patent Office. Holcombe was called to the DC bar in 1910 and the Missouri bar in 1913. He became a respected patent lawyer, working with many prestigious firms around the US, and becoming partner. Later in his career, Holcombe worked as the Director of Kistner, Lock & Appliance Co and as Special Assistant to the Attorney General (1920-1924) , and as a consultant in the Department of Justice (1946-1950). His personal life was almost as interesting as his career. In 1909, Amasa married Eleanor Pearl Marshall (1885-1932). Together, they had two children, Priscilla and Marshall. After Eleanor’s untimely passing, Amasa remarried Violet Strong Gillett in 1934. They divorced in 1946, and Holcombe married his third wife, Martha Ellcott Ramey in 1952. Holcombe was known to have been a member of the following clubs, societies and associations: American Bar Association, American Patent Law Association, Patent Institute of Canada, Association International Protection Industrial Property (American section) , American Society Military Engineers, Washington Society Engineers, American Ordnance Association, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Washington Board Trade, Sons of the American Revolution Clubs: Rotary, University (Washington). Measuring 4.75 inches by 3.0 inches, the diary contains 365 pages plus memoranda. It is 100% complete. The diary is in good condition. The covers are intact with little evidence of wear. The spine and binding are in good condition as are the pages. The handwriting is exceedingly neat and legible. Overall Good+.; Manuscripts; 32mo 4" - 5" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011067

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Cars